it contained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it contained" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the contents of something, such as a document, container, or piece of information. Example: "The report was thorough; it contained all the necessary data and analysis for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It contained few markings.

The New York Times

It contained a typo.

The New York Times

It contained false statements.

Cornell University

It contained some weather.

The New York Times

It contained expletives.

The New York Times - Travel

It contained a bolder proclamation.

The New Yorker

It contained a memorandum addr.

The New Yorker

It contained five working factories.

The Economist

It contained something she valued.

The New York Times

It contained seven thousand euros.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It contained cocaine, diazepam, etizolam and cannabis.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the contents of a document or container, ensure that the verb tense of "it contained" matches the time frame being discussed. For instance, use "it contains" for present descriptions and "it will contain" for future descriptions.

Common error

Avoid shifting between past and present tense when using "it contained". Maintain consistent tense to prevent confusion and ensure clarity in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it contained" functions as a clause element, specifically a subject and verb, indicating the presence of certain items or elements within a specific entity or context. It typically introduces what a particular thing held or included, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it contained" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe the contents of something in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and scientific sources. When using the phrase, ensure tense consistency and select appropriate synonyms like "it included" or "it comprised" to fit the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it included

This alternative uses a more general term for inclusion, suitable when the specific contents are less important.

it comprised

This alternative suggests that the listed items form the totality of the subject, which can imply completeness.

it consisted of

This alternative emphasizes the elements that make up the whole, suitable when detailing components.

it held

This alternative is appropriate when referring to physical capacity or containment.

it incorporated

This alternative indicates that something was integrated or integrated within a larger entity.

it featured

This alternative is suited when highlighting prominent or noteworthy components.

it embodied

This alternative is used when something represents an abstract concept or quality.

it encompassed

This alternative indicates that something covers a wide range of elements or aspects.

it harbored

This alternative can imply secrecy or protection when referring to the contents.

it accommodated

This alternative suggests that something has the capacity or space to contain something else.

FAQs

How can I use "it contained" in a sentence?

Use "it contained" to describe the contents of something in the past. For example, "The box it contained old photographs and letters."

What are some alternatives to "it contained"?

You can use alternatives like "it included", "it comprised", or "it consisted of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it contains" instead of "it contained"?

Yes, "it contains" is correct, but it refers to the present. Use "it contained" when referring to past contents.

What is the difference between "it contained" and "it encompassed"?

"It contained" simply states that something was inside, while "it encompassed" suggests that something covered a wide range of elements or aspects.